Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

Introduction

Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is a timeless dish that combines hearty, comforting flavors with the vibrant, earthy taste of paprika. The tender chicken, slow-cooked in a velvety sauce of sautéed onions, sweet paprika, and a touch of sour cream, creates a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in tradition. Every bite is a celebration of Hungary’s culinary heritage, offering a delightful balance of smoky, creamy, and tangy notes.

I’ll never forget the first time I made Chicken Paprikash—it filled the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that made everyone eager to gather around the table. Pair it with soft, pillowy dumplings or buttery egg noodles to soak up the luscious sauce, and you have a meal that feels like a comforting hug on a plate.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few humble ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a dinner party, or indulging in some self-care with a hearty meal, Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is guaranteed to bring joy and satisfaction to the table.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Special occasions
• Comfort food cravings
• Sharing with friends
• Lovers of rich, savory flavors

Why You’ll Love This Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

Here’s why Hungarian Chicken Paprikash will become a favorite in your recipe collection:

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The velvety sauce made with sour cream and paprika is what sets this dish apart, offering a luxurious texture and flavor.
• Tender Chicken: The chicken is cooked to perfection, absorbing the savory, paprika-infused sauce and becoming melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Authentic Flavor: Sweet Hungarian paprika is the star of this dish, giving it a signature taste that’s both smoky and slightly sweet.
• Versatile and Easy to Make: This recipe is easy to follow, requiring simple ingredients, yet it results in a sophisticated and flavorful meal.
• Comforting and Filling: Served with dumplings or noodles, this dish is incredibly satisfying and perfect for cozy meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Hungarian Chicken Paprikash:

• 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or butter)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika (preferably smoked)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream (full-fat for best flavor)
• 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Paprika: Sweet Hungarian paprika is essential to this dish, giving it the signature flavor and color. Smoked paprika can be used for a deeper flavor.
• Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this dish, as they become tender and juicy when simmered in the sauce. You can substitute chicken breasts if preferred.
• Sour Cream: Sour cream adds creaminess and a tangy kick, balancing the richness of the dish. It’s the key to the velvety sauce.
• Chicken Broth: The broth serves as the base of the sauce, enhancing the flavor and providing the perfect consistency when combined with the sour cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Hungarian Chicken Paprikash:

Prepare the Chicken and Sauce:

1. Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil (or butter) over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the Paprika and Seasonings: Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to coat the onions and garlic. Allow the spices to cook for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds extra flavor to the sauce.
5. Return the Chicken to the Pan: Place the browned chicken thighs back into the pan, skin-side up, and add the bay leaf (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer.
6. Simmer the Chicken: Cover the pan and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Finish the Sauce and Serve:

7. Make the Sauce Creamy: In a small bowl, whisk the sour cream with the flour (if using) to create a smooth mixture. Stir the sour cream into the sauce, cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the sauce is thickened and creamy.
8. Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if necessary. Remove the bay leaf.
9. Serve: Serve the chicken paprikash over a bed of dumplings, egg noodles, or rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

How to Serve Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is best served alongside comforting sides to complement its rich, creamy sauce:

• With Dumplings: Traditional Hungarian nokedli (dumplings) are a perfect pairing to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With Egg Noodles: Serve the chicken and sauce over buttered egg noodles for a comforting meal.
• With Rice: A simple bowl of rice works well to absorb the flavorful sauce.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve with fresh, crusty bread to dip into the sauce for an added touch.
• With a Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

Additional Tips for Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

Here are some tips to ensure your Hungarian Chicken Paprikash turns out perfectly:

• Use Fresh Paprika: For the best flavor, use freshly ground Hungarian paprika. The flavor can differ significantly from older or generic brands.
• Simmer Gently: Be sure to cook the chicken over low to medium heat to ensure it remains tender and juicy.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour when combining the sour cream. Alternatively, you can simmer the sauce longer to reduce it.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Chicken: If your pan isn’t large enough, cook the chicken in batches to ensure it browns properly and doesn’t steam.
• Substitute with Chicken Breasts: You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs, though they may cook faster and could be less tender.
• Add a Kick: If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot paprika along with the sweet paprika.
• Make Ahead: Chicken Paprikash can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. The flavors deepen and improve after a day or two!

Recipe Variations for Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

Here are 10 variations you can try for Hungarian Chicken Paprikash:

• Pork Paprikash: Substitute pork for the chicken for a different take on this classic dish.
• Beef Paprikash: Use beef stew meat or chuck for a rich, hearty variation.
• Smoked Paprika Paprikash: Swap out the sweet paprika for smoked paprika for a more intense, smoky flavor.
• Vegetarian Paprikash: Replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Paprikash with Potatoes: Add cubed potatoes to the sauce for a more filling and hearty dish.
• Spicy Paprikash: Add more cayenne or hot paprika to give the dish a spicy kick.
• Paprikash with Bell Peppers: Include sliced bell peppers in the sauce for added color and sweetness.
• Paprikash with Tomatoes: Stir in a can of diced tomatoes for a tangy twist to the sauce.
• Gluten-Free Paprikash: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce for a gluten-free option.
• Paprikash with Cream Cheese: Substitute some of the sour cream with cream cheese for a slightly tangier and richer sauce.

Freezing and Storage for Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

• Freezing: Chicken Paprikash freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Special Equipment for Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Hungarian Chicken Paprikash easier:

• Dutch Oven or Large Skillet: A wide, heavy-bottomed pot ensures even cooking and allows space for browning the chicken.
• Whisk: A whisk helps to smoothly combine the sour cream with the flour to make the sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Use for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring the sauce and scraping up browned bits.
• Thermometer: An instant-read thermometer helps ensure the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions for Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

1. Can I use boneless chicken?
   Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts can be used for convenience, though bone-in pieces provide more flavor.
2. What’s the difference between sweet and smoked paprika?
   Sweet paprika is mild and slightly sweet, while smoked paprika has a smoky flavor. Use sweet Hungarian paprika for authenticity.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, Chicken Paprikash reheats well, so it’s great for meal prep or making ahead for busy nights.
4. What can I substitute for sour cream?
   You can use plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche as a substitute for sour cream.
5. Can I make this dish spicy?
   Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne or hot paprika to increase the heat level.

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Conclusion

Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is a hearty and soul-warming dish that brings the rich, traditional flavors of Hungary to your table. Tender, juicy chicken is simmered in a luscious paprika-infused sauce, made creamy with a touch of sour cream, and perfectly balanced with smoky and sweet notes.

This comforting classic pairs wonderfully with buttery noodles, fluffy dumplings, or steamed rice, making it a versatile centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is sure to impress with its bold flavors and velvety texture.

I’d love to see your take on this delicious dish! Share a photo of your Hungarian Chicken Paprikash on social media and tag me—I can’t wait to see your creations. Happy cooking!